The Alchemist

It started on 7th October 2010. I was practically employed with no work. ( on Bench - a terminology so frequently used in IT industry ). I went to our Company's Library ( full of great books but so less visited by my colleagues). My quest to kill my time lead me to search the racks and I found some interesting books ranging from finance, management, philosophy. My eyes set on a book which i had heard a lot from my friends. Its called The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho ( I find it difficult till date to pronounce the name properly. A self pity).

I was not sure what to expect from the book. Was this one of those books which promises so much but turns out to be wearisome. I was in turn for a pleasent surprise. The book is of philosophical genre. Its a story of a boy named Santiago ( but it could have been anyone) a shepherd and his dream. I was intrigued with the subtle details and a undercurrent of spirituality imbedded in the idea. The central idea could be summed up in the quote so often used in the book "When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it." 

Its a journey which started from his hometown and how he travels and undrego so many challenges which is what makes the book very interesting. Throughout the book there is a message that the real treasure is inside human body itself. Paulo never makes its preachy which is the best part. Santiago meets The Alchemist and the Alchemist makes Santiago realize his treasure.( so true you need a teacher to realize your potential).

I would recommend this book to everyone who does not want to read something preachy but at the same time want to enjoy writings on spirituality.